Our goal in the development and delivery of your care is to provide the most practical and cost effective solutions for the issues that limit your optimal performance.
Our approach identifies the mechanical problems driving the issue using the most advanced and evidence based manual and physical examination techniques. We strive to localize and address the root of issues so that long term solutions and management strategies can be developed effectively and efficiently. The approach is thorough, holistic, and accessible.
One of the most important things we can provide you as physical therapists is an education. You will leave your treatment knowledgeable in the nature of your condition and how you can independently manage your issues in a way that fits your lifestyle.
Total recovery requires an active and informed approach and that is what you will receive at Union PT.
Our Team
Our Philosophy
Mitch Owens
MSPT, COMT
Special Interests
Outside the Clinic
Mitch has been practicing physical therapy in Seattle since 2004 and he co-founded Union Physical Therapy in 2009 with his wife Elisa Owens PT. Mitch has advanced training in orthopedic manual therapy, and vestibular rehabilitation. He has researched and developed injury prevention programs for climbers, skiers and snowboarders, which he promotes locally and beyond. Mitch has worked with some of the regions top outdoor athletes including professional climbers. In addition to his work with outdoor athletes Mitch’s practice is focused on the rehabilitation of spine conditions. He has a whole body approach to treatment using focused strength training and manual therapy. His ultimate goal is to empower his patients so that they can build and maintain their physical capacity so they can get back out there.
Education:
Ithaca College BS Clinical Science
Ithaca College MS Physical Therapy
North American Institute of Manual Physical Therapy – Certified Orthopedic Manipulative Therapist
Connect Therapy Series – Graduate
APTA Vestibular Rehabilitation Specialist Competency – Graduate
Elisa Owens
DPT, CMPT
Special Interests
Outside the Clinic
Elisa has practiced physical therapy in the Seattle since 2005 and founded Union Physical Therapy with her husband Mitch Owens, PT in 2009. Elisa has advanced certification in manual physical therapy and she integrates this with specific movement and strength training to address a wide range of orthopedic issues. Elisa is committed to her ongoing professional development in order to maintain a high level of clinical expertise. Elisa played NCAA division I soccer and has a special interest in working with young and adult athletes looking to improve athletic performance and evaluate systems affecting performance related to sports and exercise. Elisa values the relationship she has with her patients and the unique opportunity to help individuals optimize their wellness and achieve their movement and lifestyle goals.
Education/Accomplishments:
University of Montana – Bachelor of Science (BS) in Exercise Science
NCAA Division I soccer
University of Montana – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
North American Institute of Manual Physical Therapy – Certified Manual Physical Therapist (CMPT)
Connect Therapy Series – Graduate
Sarah Kaiser
DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Special Interests
Outside the Clinic
Sarah has been practicing physical therapy in the Seattle area since 2008. Her training in school was focused on identifying length and strength imbalances contributing to movement dysfunction, with emphasis on restoring proper movement patterns through targeted exercise. To augment her exercise based training, Sarah pursued continuing education in manual therapy, ultimately completing specialized certification in manual therapy for both the spine and the extremities. To further refine her skills, she completed fellowship level training in clinical diagnostics and manual therapy. Sarah utilizes her range of clinical skills in a patient-centric approach, in an effort to return each individual to their optimum level of health.
Education:
Seattle University, BS in General Science
Washington University in St. Louis, Doctor of Physical Therapy
International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine, Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist of the Spine and Extremities
American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy
International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine, Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists
Dustin Steffan
DPT
Special Interests
Outside the Clinic
Born and raised in the Northwest Dustin has a passion for the outdoors and is focused on helping his patients return to the activities that they love. He has years of experience treating rock climbers and other outdoor athletes with stubborn shoulder, elbow and knee issues. He is also skilled in treating youth athletes, runners and industrial athletes. He’s been practicing physical therapy since 2014 and has continued his education in manual therapy with the North American Institute of Manual Therapy, and has been undergoing clinical fellowship training with Mitch Owens PT and Elisa Owens PT at Union PT since 2016. His treatment approach uses manual therapy to facilitate improved movement with the development of an individualized home exercise plan to empower patients so that they may take control of their rehabilitation and get back out there.
Education
University of Washington: BS in physiology
University of Washington: DPT Physical Therapy
North American Institute of Manual Physical Therapy
Kristen Vaughan
DPT
Special Interests
Outside the Clinic
Kristen is an avid mountain enthusiast who is passionate about helping people achieve their goals and move towards a full and healthy life. She has been practicing physical therapy in Seattle since 2011 with a focus on orthopedics and sports medicine. She is committed to professional growth and providing the highest level of care in her practice. Her treatment style combines manual therapy with patient education, movement pattern optimization and targeted exercises.
Education:
Seattle Pacific University – BS Biology
University of Colorado – Doctorate of Physical Therapy
Continuing professional education in manual therapy, muscle activation technique, biomechanical assessment in running and cycling, vestibular rehab
Dave Leffman
MPT
Outside the Clinic
Dave is usually found outdoors. “I like to play in the mountains” he might say with a shrug as he is off for adventures including rock climbing and technical mountaineering, ski mountaineering, canyoneering, mountain and road cycling, kayaking, and adventure travel. “I believe your body is your most important piece of gear” guides his practice of strength and conditioning as he helps others achieve their goals in all sports.
“If you listen to your patients well, really pay attention, they will show you exactly what the problem is and how to treat it.” This bit of wisdom from one of Dave’s early mentors has guided his approach to the practice of physical therapy for over 25 years. In that time, he has also published scientific research, founded Pioneer Sports and Physical Therapy, and most recently published “Caregiving 101: A Practical Guide to Caring for a Loved One” He is trained in a wide array of manual therapy and exercise based techniques but doesn’t forget the art of paying attention.
Tarah Rollins
Outside the Clinic
When she is not buried in a book and a cup of coffee she is often enjoying a walk or hike with her pup.
Tarah is Union PT’s Office Manager and Biller. Tarah graduated from the University of Colorado with a Bachelors of Arts in Anthropology. She has extended her passion for learning world views and cultures to the health field. She has experience within different sectors of the field including neurology and home health.
Katie Ferguson
Outside the Clinic
spending time with her dog, hiking in the mountains, scuba diving, and travelling locally and abroad
Katie is Union Physical Therapy Part-Time Office Coordinator. Katie has been working in various roles and departments in healthcare for nearly twenty years. She has a great passion for wildlife and in 2015 earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Ecology and Conservation from the University of Washington and looks forward to pursuing graduate studies in conservation.
